bolt of lightning

USAGE SUMMARY

"bolt of lightning" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a flash of lightning, usually created by a thunderstorm. For example, "The sky lit up with a bright bolt of lightning, followed by a loud clap of thunder."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"A bolt of lightning".

The New Yorker

"Just this huge bolt of lightning.

The New York Times

A bolt of lightning cracked and flashed.

The New Yorker

Suddenly a bolt of lightning cleaves the air.

The Economist

Krygier's observations were a bolt of lightning for me.

The Guardian - Opinion

A fat bolt of lightning filled the cover.

The New Yorker

A picture of a bolt of lightning is leading.

The New York Times

The first bolt of lightning struck at 5pm.

The Guardian - Music

It hit me like a bolt of lightning.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"This was never going to be a bolt-of-lightning season," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

The moment David was born, a bolt of lightning split the rock in two.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing weather phenomena, ensure the context clearly indicates a lightning strike. Avoid ambiguity by pairing it with related terms like "thunder" or "storm".

Common error

While "bolt of lightning" can be a powerful metaphor, overusing it can diminish its impact. Reserve it for truly significant or sudden occurrences to maintain its effectiveness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bolt of lightning" primarily functions as a noun phrase. Ludwig examples show its used in both literal descriptions of weather events and metaphorical expressions for sudden insights or shocks. As per Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bolt of lightning" is a common and vivid expression used to describe both a literal weather phenomenon and a sudden, impactful event or realization. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media, this phrase effectively conveys a sense of suddenness and intensity. Remember to use it judiciously in metaphorical contexts to maintain its impactful imagery.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flash of lightning

Focuses on the visual aspect of a lightning strike, emphasizing the sudden burst of light.

stroke of lightning

Highlights the linear path and impact of a lightning discharge.

thunderbolt

A classical term for a bolt of lightning, often associated with mythological depictions of gods wielding lightning.

electrical discharge

Refers to the scientific phenomenon behind lightning, focusing on the transfer of electrical energy.

sudden revelation

Metaphorically uses lightning to represent a sudden and impactful realization or insight.

unexpected shock

Emphasizes the surprise and impact associated with a sudden event, similar to the effect of lightning.

coup de foudre

French term for "love at first sight", implying a sudden and intense emotional connection.

blinding flash

Emphasizes the intense brightness and temporary blinding effect of a lightning strike.

electric jolt

Highlights the sudden surge of energy associated with lightning, whether literal or metaphorical.

act of god

Broader concept referring to an event outside of human control, such as severe weather events.

FAQs

How can I use "bolt of lightning" in a sentence?

You can use "bolt of lightning" to describe a literal lightning strike, such as "A "bolt of lightning" struck the tree during the storm". It can also be used metaphorically to describe a sudden realization or event, such as "The idea hit me like a "bolt of lightning"".

What are some alternatives to "bolt of lightning"?

Alternatives include "flash of lightning", "stroke of lightning", or, metaphorically, "sudden revelation".

Is it correct to say "bolt of lightening" instead of "bolt of lightning"?

"Lightening" is a verb meaning to make something lighter, while "lightning" is the noun referring to the electrical discharge. Therefore, "bolt of lightning" is the correct phrase.

Can "bolt of lightning" be used in a positive context?

Yes, while often associated with destructive storms, "bolt of lightning" can also describe a sudden, positive insight or inspiration. For example, "The solution came to her like a "bolt of lightning"".